Spring Roof Maintenance: How to Prepare Your Roof for Summer

As the Pennsylvania winter thaw gives way to warmer weather, now is the perfect time to inspect and maintain your roof. A well-maintained roof not only protects your home from summer storms but also extends its lifespan and preserves curb appeal.

Why Spring Roof Maintenance Matters

• Protect Against Summer Storms: Late-season storms can bring hail, high winds, and heavy rain that exploit winter damage.

• Prevent Costly Repairs: Identifying loose shingles or flashing issues early can save hundreds (or thousands) in emergency repair bills.

• Improve Energy Efficiency: A tight, well-sealed roof helps keep your attic cooler and lowers A/C bills.

1. Perform a Visual Inspection

1. Walk the Perimeter: Look for missing or cracked asphalt shingles, rusted flashing, and clogged gutters.

2. Check the Attic: Use a flashlight to spot daylight through the roof decking—any light leak could lead to water damage.

3. Inspect Ventilation: Make sure ridge vents and soffit vents are clear of debris to allow hot air to escape.

2. Clean & Repair Gutters

• Remove Debris: Leaves, pine needles, and shingle granules can block downspouts and cause water to back up under the eaves.

• Re-Secure Loose Hangers: Gutters should slope gently toward downspouts—re-align any sagging sections.

• Install Gutter Guards (optional): Helps reduce debris build-up and maintenance frequency.

3. Replace Damaged Shingles & Flashing

• Loose or Missing Shingles: Secure loose shingles with roofing cement; replace any that are broken or missing.

• Damaged Flashing: Seal small gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights with high-quality, UV-resistant caulk.

• Edge & Ridge Caps: Inspect the most wind-exposed areas (roof hips and ridges) for wear and replace as needed.

4. Check for Moss & Algae Growth

• Moss Removal: Gently scrape off moss with a plastic bristle brush—avoid metal tools that can damage shingles.

• Prevent Recurrence: Install zinc-strip ridge vents or apply a moss-inhibiting treatment.

• Algae Stains: Clean stained areas with a 50/50 mix of water and bleach, rinsing thoroughly afterward.

5. Schedule a Professional Roof Tune-Up

Even the most diligent DIYer benefits from an annual professional check-up. A licensed, insured roofer will:

• Perform a complete roof inspection (including hard-to-reach areas)

• Use drone imagery or EagleView takeoffs to assess hidden damage

• Provide a detailed report and transparent repair estimate

Book Your Spring Roof Inspection Today

Don’t wait for leaks or drafty attics to ruin your summer fun.Call Red Patch Roofing & Contracting at (910) 728-0212 or request a free inspection online. Our veteran-owned, fully licensed & insured team will ensure your roof is storm-ready and energy-efficient—backed by 5-star service in Berks County and beyond.